The Freshman Boys Cross Country team took first place in the freshman state championship Monday. Only 13 points separated the top four teams. Behind EG (with a 57 score) came Smithfield (61), Bishop Hendricken (68) and La Salle (70).
"This is the first freshman states championship in school history," said coach Peter Dion. "Another milestone in EG Cross Country."
He added, "As hard as it is to understand, this is a team sport."
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Monday's results reflect that. EG runners didn't finish in the top five. In fact, EG's first to finish – Henry Perretta – placed eighth. But the next three to finish – Tim Sanzi, Jackson Cronin, and Jack Sommer – were also from East Greenwich.
"The spread is crucial in the success of a cross country team," said Dion.
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He noted that the fifth EG finisher – Willy Por – who placed 19th, played a pivotal role too. "Our fifth-place runner was still a huge factor by splitting up two of the Smithfield kids to secure a victory."
Boys and Girls Cross Country teams compete in the state class championships this weekend at Ponaganset. According to Athletic Director Chris Cobain, the EG Boys Varsity team has a chance to finish third in the state, behind La Salle and Hendricken, quite an accomplishment for a medium-size school, he said.
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